Legendary History

Constructed in 1925 by famed architects Willie Watson and Sam Whiting, TPC Harding Park is considered one of the Country’s premiere municipal venues. Soon after its opening, Harding Park began hosting major amateur events – most notably, the USGA National Public Links Championship and the San Francisco City Championship. In 1944, Harding Park hosted its first PGA TOUR event with Byron Nelson as the inaugural winner. Throughout its history, Harding Park has crowned legendary champions such as Gary Player (1961), Ken Venturi (1966), Billy Casper (1968), and Tiger Woods (2005).

Revitalization efforts and partnership with TPC

By the end of the 1960’s, however, budgetary cuts left Harding Park in poor condition. No longer host to the PGA TOUR, it appeared all but settled that Harding’s glory days were relegated to the past. The course reached its lowest point in 1998, when it was used as a parking lot for the U.S. Open at nearby Olympic Club.

Despite the conditions, Frank “Sandy” Tatum had different ideas for Harding’s future. Convinced that Harding could return to its gloried past, the former USGA president rallied political leaders, local businesses and the PGA TOUR to join the cause. These combined efforts resulted in a $24 million restoration project in 2002-2003.

A mere seven years removed from its use as a parking lot, Harding Park hosted the WGC American Express Championship for its first PGA TOUR event since 1969. Record crowds flocked to witness Tiger Woods defeat John Daly in a memorable playoff. After years of uncertainty and unfulfilled potential, Harding Park was finally again on the world stage. Harding Park culminated its remarkable rebirth with its addition to the PGA TOUR’s prestigious TPC network in October of 2010. A gem once again, TPC Harding Park remains poised to continue its role in golf history as a major championship venue for years to come.

Major Announcement

In July of 2014, the PGA TOUR, the PGA of America, and The City and County of San Francisco announced an unprecedented partnership to bring the 2015 World Golf Championship Match Play, 2020 PGA Championship, and 2025 Presidents Cup to TPC Harding Park. This extraordinary announcement elevated TPC Harding Park to become just the fifth municipal course ever to host a Major Championship in the 120 year history of American championship golf.